12 Best Things To Do In Newcastle, Australia (2024 Guide)

From stunning beaches and exciting water sports to art galleries and more, here are the best things to do in Newcastle, Australia!

Newcastle is one of Australia’s most picturesque coastal cities. While it’s best known for its stunning beaches, it has a thriving arts scene and historic sites waiting for you to discover.

From iconic seaside spots like Newcastle Beach, Merewether Beach, Nobbys Beach, and the Ocean Baths, to the cultural attractions of the Newcastle Museum, Fort Scratchley Historic Site, and King Edward Park, Newcastle’s CBD has something for everyone.

With so much to see and do, you are guaranteed to have a great time in this vibrant coastal city! Now, let’s explore the best things to do in Newcastle.

The Best Things To Do In Newcastle, Australia

Newcastle’s CBD and around is packed with plenty of things to do. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, beautiful beaches, or historic sites, you’ll find something to love here. Read on to discover the best things to do in Newcastle!

Find more of the best places to visit in Australia!

1. Visit Newcastle’s Beaches

Newcastle is home to impressive stretches of sand and world-class beach breaks. Therefore, no visit here is complete without heading to the beach! While Newcastle Beach is the most popular, other equally scenic beaches are Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach.

For family activities, head to Nobbys Beach. It has calm waters, perfect for your little swimmers. Meanwhile, Merewether Beach is best known for its world-class surf, making it popular among kite surfing enthusiasts. It also hosted an international surfing competition, SURFEST.

Newcastle Beach is the most popular of all the beaches here and often has a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a wonderful spot for relaxing walks and people-watching.

2. Explore the Newcastle Memorial Walk

Walking the Newcastle Memorial Walk will give you a glimpse of Newcastle’s history. Built to honor the ANZACs, the scenic walkway features steel silhouettes engraved with the names of local soldiers.

You’ll also be rewarded with the coastline’s breathtaking views as you walk on this 450-meter path. For someone who loves to take a walk while sightseeing, this is a must-do!

The Newcastle Memorial Walk is also a popular stop on Newcastle Sightseeing Tours. While a self-guided walking tour is fun, you’ll learn more about the place when you book with a guide. Take a walk with your knowledgeable guide, and listen to some insights about the place, including its history and significance.

3. Admire Masterpieces at the Newcastle Art Gallery

Whether you’re into arts or not, the Newcastle Art Gallery is a top attraction in the city. The gallery showcases over 7,000 significant art collections, including Australian and international pieces.

You’ll find everything from traditional landscapes to modern sculptures and Indigenous art. Don’t miss the masterpieces of famous Australian artists like Arthur Boyd and Margaret Olley. The exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to look forward to in every visit.

The gallery’s architecture is equally impressive. You’ll love wandering around the place, soaking up its calm atmosphere as you admire the art collections. Its location in the city centre means it’s within an easy walking distance from the other top attractions.

4. Check out Fort Scratchley Historic Site

Perched on a hill overlooking the ocean, Fort Scratchley is one of Newcastle’s most-visited historical sites.

Dating back to 1882, it was built to defend Newcastle from attacks. It’s a great place to visit for those interested to learn more about the city’s proud history.

The site is most famous for firing at a Japanese submarine during World War II, making it the only Australian fort to do so. During your visit, you can explore underground tunnels, discover military artifacts, and learn about its fascinating past.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the amazing coastal town of Port Stephens near Newcastle!

5. Visit the Newcastle Museum

Newcastle Museum is the perfect place to learn about the city’s history and culture. Housed in a historic railway workshop, the museum boasts old-world charm.

When you get inside, you’ll find interactive displays about Newcastle’s industrial past, including when it was popular for coal mining and steel production.

The Supernova exhibit is a highlight. It features hands-on science fun to delight the little ones. In fact, the Newcastle Museum will keep the whole family entertained. There are also fascinating stories about the local Indigenous Awabakal people and some special exhibitions.

6. Discover the Newcastle Ocean Baths

For a unique swimming experience, visit the Newcastle Ocean Baths. These historic baths date back to the 1920s and attract swimmers of all levels with their calm waters and vast open pool. It’s another place that the whole family will love.

While the kids play in the ocean baths, the adults can relax on the surrounding promenade or explore the coastal walking trails.

The Newcastle Ocean Baths are also ideal for photography enthusiasts, particularly during sunrise and sunset. In addition, the Ocean Baths have a beautiful Art Deco Pavilion, which makes for a great backdrop for stunning photo-ops.

Continue exploring further north in NSW with a visit to Byron Bay!

7. Admire Street Art at Newcastle East End

Art lovers should visit East End, a vibrant open-air gallery with colourful murals and creative street art designs.

Local and international artists have transformed the area’s walls into stunning works of art! Each piece has a story to tell, usually showcasing Newcastle’s culture, history, and community spirit.

The murals at East End are spread throughout laneways, streets, and hidden corners, making a fun treasure hunt for art lovers. The diversity of styles is impressive, from bold graffiti to intricate illustrations.

8. Relax in nature at King Edward Park

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle and relax in nature, head to King Edward Park. The historic park is tranquil and beautiful, with stunning ocean views. It’s the perfect spot to unwind or enjoy a relaxing picnic or a peaceful stroll.

King Edward Park has vast green spaces, colourful flower gardens, and scenic walking trails.

One of the highlights is the Obelisk, which looks out to the panoramic views of the city and sea. Families with kids should come to King Edward Park since it has playgrounds to entertain the little ones.

9. Explore the Historic Newcastle City Hall

Constructed in the 1920s, the Newcastle City Hall is a historic site featuring a stunning sandstone building.

Symbolizing the city’s rich heritage, it’s a great place to visit to learn some history. Its iconic clock tower and grand architecture have made it a standout landmark of Newcastle.

The interior of Newcastle City Hall is equally impressive, featuring elegant staircases, chandeliers, and ornate details.

Consider joining guided tours for insight into its history and significance in the development of Newcastle. The City Hall also hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. It’s located in the city center, so you can easily get here on foot if you’re staying anywhere in Newcastle CBD.

Head south and spend a few days exploring the iconic city of Sydney, NSW!

10. Enjoy Water Sports at Lake Macquarie

As the largest coastal saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere, Lake Macquarie is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts. You can try water sports on its calm waters, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, or fishing.

For a more relaxing experience, take a Lake Macquarie Sightseeing Cruise. Joining these cruises is a great way to explore the lake with a chance to spot local wildlife.

These tours include a guided bushwalk through the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area. Follow your guide as you hike through walking trails leading to lush forests with amazing views.

11. Swim in the Bogey Hole

Looking for something unique to do in Newcastle? Swim at the Bogey Hole! It’s a historic ocean pool carved into rocks by convicts during the early 1800s and is one of Australia’s oldest swimming spots.

With waves crashing dramatically around you, swimming at the Bogey Hole is an incredible experience. The pool is surrounded by natural rock formations, which enhances its appeal.

Swimming at high tide is even more exciting as the ocean spills into the pool.

12. Walk Along Bathers Way

If you love strolling by the beach, walk along Bathers Way when you visit Newcastle. The scenic coastal path stretches for six kilometers and boasts breathtaking ocean views.

It connects Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach, passing through attractions like the historic Bogey Hole and the picturesque King Edward Park.

During your walk, you could be lucky to spot dolphins. You’ll also see surfers riding the waves. It’s especially magical during sunrise and sunset, perfect for romantic walks.

As you stroll hand in hand along the scenic path, marvel at the stunning colors of the sky lighting up the coastline.

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Where to Stay in Newcastle, Australia

With plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget, finding the best place to stay in Newcastle is easy. If you want to splurge, treat yourself to luxury beachfront hotels with top-notch service and world-class amenities. But if you’re on a budget, don’t fret – there are amazing hostels and budget hotels to suit your needs!

The Best Hostel in Newcastle – Backpackers Newcastle

The Backpackers Newcastle is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly place to stay in Newcastle.

Besides the clean and cozy dorm rooms, they have private rooms with shared amenities, such as a communal kitchen and pool. Due to its central location, Newcastle’s beaches and attractions are only a walking distance from here.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Newcastle – Little National Hotel Newcastle

The Little National Hotel stands out among the mid-range hotel options in Newcastle. Staying here lets you enjoy luxury at a price you can afford. The rooms are compact and stylish, with comfortable beds and premium amenities.

But the best part is its central location, a short walk to some of Newcastle’s top attractions.

Best Luxury Hotel in Newcastle – Noah’s On the Beach

Noah’s On the Beach is the only hotel in Newcastle nestled directly on the beach. If you want to wake up to incredible ocean views and easy access to Newcastle’s beaches, this is the place to stay.

The rooms are modern and luxurious, with balconies facing the beach. As expected in a luxury hotel, Noah’s On the Beach boasts top-notch amenities, including an award-winning restaurant.

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